About College

History of St. Anne’s College Kurunegala

In 1867 foundation was laid to one of the most famous schools in Sri Lanka as “Roman Catholic English School” in Kurunegala. It was initiated by then Parish Priest of Kurunegala church Rev. Fr. Francis Saviour. There were 28 boys and 19 girls enrolled in the first year with two teachers. The medium of the language was only English. With the intention of putting up a Boys only school “Roman Catholic English School” was transformed to “St. Anne’s Boys College” in 1881 with the guidance of then Kurunegala Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Adrian Dufo. The number of pupils on role in 1881 was 101 and the first Headmaster was Mr. B. S. Peterson.

It was on the invitation and recommendation of the late Chevalier C. L. W. Perera that the De Lasalle Brothers acceding to the request of then Archbishop, assumed duties at St. Anne’s College on 1 December 1934. The arrival of the De Lasalle Brothers to this Royal City, paved the way for the awakening of both discipline and quality education. Brother Hugh Ferrington, was the first Director of the college. He formed the Old Boys Association in 1935 and on 9 June of the same year the old Boys Day was Inaugurated.

The college anthem Green, Gold and Blue was introduced by Brother Hugh Farrington on 21st May 1936. He also inaugurated the House system Delasalle, Benildus and Solomon in June 1936 to promote competition in sports and athletics. The principle and teachers who strived to maintain our alma mater from the beginning to date should be respectfully and lovingly remembered for their commitment to steer guide and direct us to be what we are today and most of all for bringing us all of different ages together on this day.

St. Anne

St. Anne, much revered in Christian faith as the mother of the Virgin Mary and grandmother of Jesus Christ, is cherished by believers worldwide. Regarded as a symbol of maternal love, guidance, and intercession, her veneration spans centuries. Devotees seek her benevolent protection and guidance, turning to her in times of need and gratitude. St. Anne's enduring legacy as a paragon of faith and family inspires countless individuals to cultivate their spirituality and embrace the values of compassion and devotion.

St Anne's Church Kurunegala

Nestled in the heart of the historical capital city Kurunegala, Sri Lanka, St. Anne's Cathedral stands as a timeless testament to faith and history. Its origins trace back to 1831 when the visionary Italian priests, Father Innocent and Father Pietrini, embarked on its construction.

The labour of devotion culminated in 1835, and in 1842, the church was consecrated by a revered Roman Catholic Archbishop from Colombo. Over the years, the cathedral has been lovingly preserved through renovations in 1860, 1880, and 1990, proudly earning its distinction as one of Sri Lanka's oldest churches. A cherished landmark, St. Anne's Cathedral embodies the enduring spirit of faith and architectural splendour that continues to inspire countless visitors from near and far.

St. John Baptiste de la Salle

St. John Baptiste de la Salle (1651-1719) was a revered Catholic priest, educator, and the founder of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, also known as the De La Salle Brothers.

His unwavering dedication to providing quality education for the poor and marginalized children in 17thcentury France marked him as a visionary leader in the field of education. St. John Baptiste de la Salle's innovative teaching methods and commitment to teaching beyond traditional academic subjects have left an indelible mark on modern education.

His lasting legacy continues to inspire educators worldwide to impart knowledge, compassion, and values in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.

De La Salle Brothers involvement with the College

In response to the invitation and recommendation of C. L. W. Perera, the De La Salle Brothers assumed management of St. Anne's College in Kurunegala on 1 December 1934, acquiring a 12-acre land for Rs. 15,000/=. Under the directorship of Hugh Ferrington, the Brothers' presence brought about a transformation in the institution's discipline and educational standards.

The establishment of the Old Boys Association in 1935, followed by the inauguration of Old Boys Day in 1935 and the appointment of Attorney at Law Felician Perera as its President in 1940, further enriched the school's sense of community and tradition. The construction of the first building began in 1941 and, in 1942, the Brothers and 360 boys along with 50 boarders moved into the new facility.

Successor to Brother Casimir, Brother Theodoret of Mary, made significant contributions to the school by introducing science studies and setting up a laboratory in 1943. The De La Salle Brothers' involvement marked the beginning of an era characterized by discipline and quality education at St. Anne's College.

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